No Bean Chili
A hearty, flavorful no-bean chili with tender ground beef, green peppers, and a rich tomato base, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute the onion and green peppers in vegetable oil in a Dutch oven.
- Add the ground chuck and cook until browned, stirring to crumble the meat.
- Add the tomato paste, chili powder, pepper, vinegar, salt, and water to the Dutch oven.
- Bring to a boil, then cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Top with grated cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier chili, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. If you don't have ground chuck, ground turkey or chicken can be excellent substitutes. You can also use homemade tomato sauce instead of tomato paste for a fresher flavor. Adjust the water to achieve your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the No Bean Chili hot, topped with the grated cheese for a creamy finish. It pairs beautifully with Southern Cheese Grits for a comforting meal. Consider offering cornbread or tortilla chips on the side for added texture. A simple Tomato Pecan Salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the chili's richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chili in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it seems too thick. Stir occasionally until heated through. It also freezes well for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of No Bean Chili contains roughly 422 calories, with 26g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (52% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2142mg per serving (93% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to make it vegetarian by substituting the ground chuck with a plant-based meat alternative or using lentils or mushrooms for texture. Ensure the vegetable broth replaces the water for added flavor, making it a hearty vegetarian option.
How can I thicken the chili if it's too watery?
If your chili turns out too watery, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a few additional minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a small amount of cold water and stir it into the chili until it reaches your desired thickness.
What can I serve with No Bean Chili?
No Bean Chili pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with cornbread for a classic combination, or add a side of rice for a filling meal. A simple green salad can also balance the richness of the chili, making it a complete and satisfying dining experience.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).